Call for Improvements on Wheelchair Accessible Buses

Campaigners in the Scottish Borders are calling for improvements to bus services after a disabled woman was left to sit in the rain because the driver had not used wheelchair accessible vehicle lifts or received relevant training.

The revelation came to light at a recent meeting held by the Scottish Borders Council.  It is also feared that local bus services in the Borders could be under threat following expected cuts in public funding.

Disabled Lifeline

For disabled people public transport is a vital service in helping to achieve independence.  While local bus companies are providing wheelchair accessible vehicles, putting drivers who are unable to operate the equipment on routes prevents wheelchair users from boarding safely.  There are now plans to set up a local lobby group to campaign for improvements.

Gavin Booth, chairman of Bus Users UK, said: “I think the concern for bus users all over Scotland is what effect the spending review might have on bus services.  There is a fear services to more remote and rural areas could suffer, which would mean those who don’t have a car could find themselves stuck at home.”

Clearly, for disabled people – whether in rural or urban areas – the availability of reliable wheelchair accessible vehicles as part of the public transport network is even more important.